Class Central is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

FutureLearn

A Panoramic View of China: Introducing Chinese Culture

Shanghai International Studies University via FutureLearn

Overview

Prepare to study in China with Shanghai International Studies University (SISU)

Any international student hoping to study in China needs to know a little about Chinese culture. That means delving into the country’s history, art, economy, and more.

This eight-week course from SISU is designed to provide a panoramic overview of Chinese culture. Aimed at international students starting out at a Chinese university, it will give you the knowledge you need to ace your study abroad experience.

Delve into Chinese history and philosophy

Underpinning Chinese culture are several millennia of history and ancient philosophical movements, including Taoism and Confucianism.

The course will start by tracing the historical roots of Chinese culture, together with the thoughts and ideas that have forged it.

Explore great works of Chinese literature and art

Next, you’ll survey some of the greatest Chinese artistic contributions, spanning literature, art, architecture, and more.

From great classic writers like Lu Xan and Mo Yang to the legacy of traditional Chinese painting and music, you’ll be introduced to the most influential works and traditions.

Understand the Chinese economy and the role of technology

In Weeks 6 and 7 of the course, you’ll look at the structure of the Chinese economy and the role technology plays within it.

You’ll examine the three main industries in China today, discussing how China has become a global leader in trade and innovation.

Get a flavour of Chinese customs and language

Last but not least, you’ll be introduced to the Chinese language and given a flavour of customs and traditions.

You’ll learn about the difference between Mandarin and other dialects, while mastering the staples of Chinese etiquette.

With the knowledge you gain over the eight weeks of the course, you’ll be ready to take your first steps as an international student in China.

This course is primarily designed for international undergraduate students intending to study abroad in China.

It will also be suitable for anyone interested in gaining a comprehensive overview of Chinese history and culture.

Syllabus

  • Primary National Conditions&Environment and Resourses
    • Course Introduction
    • Primary National Conditions
    • Environment and Resources
  • Chinese History
    • Introduction
    • The Pre-Qin Period
    • The Qin and Han Dynasties
    • The Three Kingdoms, the Jin Dynasty, and the Northern and Southern Dynasties
    • The Sui Dynasty, the Tang Dynasty, and the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms.
    • The Song Dynasty, the Liao Dynasty, the Western Xia Dynasty, and the Jin Dynasty
    • The Yuan Dynasty
    • The Ming Dynasty
    • The Qing Dynasty
    • The Modern Chinese History
    • The Communist Party of China and Modern China
    • Quiz
  • Chinese Philosophy&Religion
    • Chinses Philosophy
    • Religion
  • Chinese Literature&Art
    • Chinese Litereature
    • Art
  • Chinese Language and Script& Mid-term
    • Chinese Language and Script
    • Mid-term
  • Chinese Economy
    • Chinese Economy
  • Chinese Science and Technology&People's Well-being Projects
    • Chinese Science and Technology
    • People's well-being Projects
  • Chinese Customs and Traditions&Course Summary&Final
    • Chinese Customs and traditions
    • Course Summary

Taught by

Zhu Xuan

Tags

Reviews

5 rating at FutureLearn based on 3 ratings

Start your review of A Panoramic View of China: Introducing Chinese Culture

Never Stop Learning.

Get personalized course recommendations, track subjects and courses with reminders, and more.

Someone learning on their laptop while sitting on the floor.